Statewide Free Fishing Day is this Saturday

Published at 12:11 pm, June 6, 2017 |

Updated at 12:19 pm, June 6, 2017

IDAHO FALLS — One of the best days of the year for anglers of all ages is coming up.

Free Fishing Day is Saturday across the Gem State and it’s the only day of the year when anyone — including non-residents — can fish without a license.

The goal of Free Fishing Day is to expose kids to the fun of fishing, according to Idaho Department of Fish and Game officials.

Idaho Fish and Game will have experienced staff and volunteers on hand to help newcomers get started at designated fishing sites around the state. Many bodies of water have been stocked recently to make sure novice anglers will have the best possible shot at a successful first outing. Folks planning to take advantage of Free Fishing Day should remember that all other fishing regulations remain intact and fees are still charged for camping in the state parks, according to a news release.

Fish and Game staff, volunteers and other civic groups will be on hand at the following fishing spots to help teach youngsters to tie fishing knots, bait hooks, and cast properly:

Idaho Falls Area: Becker Pond at Ryder Park

Rexburg Area: Rexburg City Pond west of the Madison County Fairgrounds

Victor Area: Trail Creek Kids Pond

Island Park: Mill Creek Pond on Yale/Kilgore Road

All the sites will have loaner poles to help kids get started, along with a generous supply of worms for bait. Staff will be on hand from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

A parent or guardian should accompany all children. Adults and single-parent families are strongly encouraged to come and learn more about our proud national fishing heritage, according to a news release.